A layover in Carepa is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Antonio Roldan Betancourt Airport sits just 60 minutes from the city center by Taxi/Local Bus, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at APO:
First, verify that you can enter Colombia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Local Bus takes about 60 minutes into Carepa, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — COP is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some COP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from APO to Carepa
From APO, the Taxi/Local Bus gets you to Carepa in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Local Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Carepa layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$9 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$24 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to See and Do in Carepa
If you head into Carepa, here are two things worth checking out:
Parque Principal de Carepa is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Iglesia San Antonio de Padua is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Carepa.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at APO, check out Waiting Area Relaxation or Airport Coffee Break to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Carepa
If you make it into town, Sabor Paisa is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try El Rancho de Urabá.
Inside APO
If you’re staying in the terminal, CafeterÃa APO Express is your main option. Pasabocas al Vuelo works too if you want something quick.
Bag Storage Near APO
Luggage storage options at APO can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Carepa for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at APO, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Carepa itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Colombia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, APO has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Carepa count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave APO. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.